A Kew Home

Our completed residential extension in Kew is an adaptation and extension of a detached London house, replacing what was previously a mock-Victorian style conservatory which became overheated in the summer and uncomfortably cold in winter. The addition comprises of a family space accommodating a living, kitchen and dining area (designed by Roundhouse) that extend outwards onto an exterior decked patio. A continuous flow of spaces begins within the centre of the house, through the new spaces, to the decking and out to the garden, aided by the flush glazing that creates an open corner. Various design features allow the flush zinc roof to appear to float as its own entity; an external column (which doubles up as a down pipe for rainwater) provides support from the deck whilst the top rail of the sky frame is held up by structural steel rods, cleverly concealed in silicone joints by Elliot Wood engineers. A glazed division between the old building and the new roof separates the spaces and draws light into the depth of the original rooms.

Varying ceiling heights are dictated by the function of the spaces and are sympathetic to the original Victorian features such as a large striking crittall door, detail on the brick façade and bay windows. The roof (which is lower than the original conservatory) slopes towards the neighbouring house to reduce the scale of the extension where it meets.

The immediate neighbourhood, which is within two minutes walk from the Royal Botanical Gardens, is a conservation zone. The new extension is nestled within the garden which hosts a rich selection of English and tropical greenery and a new herb growing platform, mimicked by the Sedum roof. The kitchen becomes a utility space through the addition of a day door that allows practical direct access to the growing area and garden beyond.